Apparently, infected rodents become absolutely determined to end up eaten by cats. In its relentless fight for survival, Toxo has evolved to increase the likelihood that it will end up in a cat’s tummy.

Toxoplasma gondii is known to change the host’s behaviour. Studies show the capability for the parasite to make rats fearless near cats. This indicates the evolutionary need for Toxoplasma gondii to get inside felines. When a rat is eaten by a cat the parasite gets inside the primary host.

There have been a few studies with humans, too. Some results indicate a strong correlation between schizophrenia and toxoplasmosis. According to some studies women with toxoplasmosis are more likely to cheat their husbands. Men with the parasite have shown to be more aggressive. Infected humans also have slower reaction times.

From another study: While men with toxoplasmosis are more likely to act suspicious, infected women show warmth.

Toxoplasma gondii cares less about getting into humans. Human body is a dead end for it. But humans love their kitties and clean their litter, and the kitties — particularly the “free range” ones who hunt rodents — might get infected with nasty parasite that can turn human into a nasty SOB, or a courageous rebel, or schizophrenic, or cheating wife. Who knew?

According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 60 million people in the United States are said to be infected.

2 comments on “Infectious Courage”

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